The stratigraphy, classification and correlation of the marine strata in the Dinantian (Lower Carboniferous) succession of central Scotland are discussed. Correlations of eight principal marine bands in the upper part of the sequence are proposed and four Hosie limestones are recognised in Fife. The marine macrofossils are listed and their vertical and lateral distribution discussed. Biofacies maps of the main marine faunas are presented, which indicate an eastern origin for the marine transgressions and suggest the existence of a river entering the region to the N of Glasgow. Observations are made on the range of host-sediments in which the most commonly occurring genera are found and palaeoecological interpretations are made concerning the main components of the faunas. Some evidence is given to suggest that some elements of the faunas migrated into the region from the E. The palaeogeography is discussed and a correlation is outlined between epifaunal forms at some horizons and areas of less subsidence in the general regional pattern of differential subsidence.

A brief account of the stratigraphy of the Westphalian (Upper Carboniferous) of the Ayrshire Coalfield is given. Older rocks are found to be overlain by Westphalian strata of differing age in various parts of the coalfield. A correlation of the coal seams known by numerous local names in various areas of the coalfield is shown. The vertical distribution of species of non-marine bivalves is illustrated and the faunas associated with various horizons discussed. The presence of variants of Anthraconaia pulchella Broadhurst at more than one horizon is noted. The lateral distribution of species at given horizons is examined and it is shown that elements of the overall fauna of an horizon may be absent in parts of the coalfield. The occurrence of marine bands in the succession is noted and their distribution discussed. It is suggested that during the Aegiranum Marine Band incursion the northern and north-western parts of the coalfield were nearer a land mass. A new stratigraphical name, the Bogton Marine Band is proposed. The band occurs within the Upper Similis-Pulchra Chronozone.